Congo Terminal Launches Republic of the Congo’s First Fully Electric Port

Congo Terminal, a subsidiary of AGL, is progressing with the construction of a new terminal at Môle Est to accommodate growing cargo volumes at the Port of Pointe-Noire. Once completed, it will become the Republic of the Congo’s first port terminal to operate entirely with electric cargo handling equipment. The project is part of AGL’s €1 billion investment programme running from 2009 to 2027.

The new terminal will feature a full range of modern electric handling equipment, replacing machinery powered by internal combustion engines. This transition is expected to improve operational efficiency while creating faster, quieter and cleaner cargo handling. The terminal will begin operations with five electric ship-to-shore cranes, 15 electric rubber-tyred gantry cranes and 30 electric harbour tractors. An advanced energy management system will monitor electricity use in real time to improve energy efficiency.

Anthony Samzun, Managing Director of Congo Terminal, said the project reflects AGL’s international experience in developing and operating port terminals. He noted that the company is applying this expertise in the Republic of the Congo to build modern port infrastructure that meets current industry standards while improving environmental performance.

The fully electric terminal marks an important step for the Republic of the Congo and the wider Central African region. By replacing conventional fuel-powered equipment with electric alternatives, the terminal will reduce emissions from cargo handling and support lower carbon emissions across maritime transport and logistics. The project will also improve the efficiency and reliability of cargo operations at Pointe-Noire, strengthen the port’s competitiveness and reinforce its role as a key trade gateway for neighbouring landlocked countries.

The Môle Est project is expected to create around 900 direct and indirect jobs across terminal operations, electrical equipment maintenance and logistics services. It will also increase the Port of Pointe-Noire’s annual handling capacity to 2.5 million TEUs, further strengthening its position as one of the region’s leading maritime hubs.

source: maritimafrica.com